Hey Phillyites, help me out! I'm turning 30 in April and I want to have a fun night in the city with family and friends. And of course some vegan eats. I am at a loss on where to go. Any ideas?

So far I am thinking maybe the Pope or National Mechanics. But I haven't been to either of them and don't know if they are good for birthday parties.

I thought about throwing myself a party, but I don't really want to do all that work for my own birthday. And my house is kind of small for that many people. And renting a place is like throwing a small wedding! I don't have the funds for that.

Honestly, I recommend the Abbaye in Nolibs. Their seitan wings are great and i've been there on Fridays and Saturdays and they never get really crowded, which is key! My buddy had his bday party there a few months ago on a Friday night and as our crowd grew bigger we eventually just took over the whole side nook of the bar, which is nice.

I would advise againt the POPE because weekends get annoyingly crowded, unless you want to start partying early...then it's not that bad. The food is alright, but we (as in vegans) do have a bit of a selection. National Mechanics veggie burger is supposedly good, but questionably vegan. Big open space, but really no real vegan options (at least the last time I checked.)

The khyber pass pub has my favorite vegan bar food and I used to party here years ago, so that might meet your requirements haha. They've got an upstairs too, and i am sure they still have DJs on the weekends.

I wouldn't recommend the interstate draft house because it's pretty tiny, but they have an awesome vegan menu. Memphis taproom in april if the weather is nice is a great option now that they have that beer garden.

There are many more options, but those mentioned are all my favorites.

So, yes, in conclusion Philly rules for having great bars and beers and vegan food.

I had my birthday party at Cantina. They don't take reservations, but I called ahead & told them I'd be coming in with a party of 12 & it didn't faze them at all. It was on a Sunday, though, so it was less crowded than a weekend.

If you're trying to bowl, I highly recommend reserving some lanes at Pep Bowl & getting Blackbird to deliver there !